CLEMSON, SC - Howard's Rock, the iconic fixture Clemson players rub prior to running down the hill during the football team's entrance into Memorial Stadium, was vandalized sometime June 2 or June 3. A small portion of The Rock was broken off of its pedestal after vandals broke the casing that protects the artifact.

"We take vandalism, especially of such an important part of our history, very seriously," said Director of Athletics Dan Radakovich. "Police are investigating."

There was no damage to the pedestal that supports the rock.

Clemson Head Coach Dabo Swinney on Vandalism to Howard's Rock:"It is very disappointing that someone would disrespect our tradition to this extent. It is a unique tradition of college football, one of the iconic images of the game.

"I am sure the Clemson police will investigate this thoroughly and prosecute the person or persons responsible for this behavior.

"Thankfully, most of Howard's Rock is still intact and I know Clemson University will do what is necessary to protect it going forward.

"I know our coaches and players look forward to rubbing Howard's Rock and furthering one of the great traditions of college football when we open the season against Georgia on August 31."